Dear Dr. Gott: How can we know the source (country and producing
company) of drugs?
Ordering drugs through an online company outside the United
States, I've noted they have come from Germany but are of Indian
origin. Are they equivalent to U.S. manufactured drugs and
specifications?
I've heard U.S.-made drugs may have components produced overseas,
so how do we know if drugs like this are safe? Does the FDA have any
jurisdiction over ingredients made elsewhere for inclusion in U.S.
pharmaceuticals?
Dear Reader: According to a Consumer Reports article from two
years ago, the FDA requires a drug's original packaging to list the
name and address of the company that manufactures, packs or
distributes a product. Unfortunately, this information often refers
to over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, because most prescription drugs are
rebottled and relabeled at your local pharmacy.
Consumers Union, the parent of Consumer Reports, is working with
congressional leaders on a bill that will require the FDA to provide
tighter scrutiny of foreign manufacturers and imported drugs
destined for the U.S. This legislation presumably will also require
foreign manufacturers and suppliers to be registered because, in
some instances, the FDA isn't even aware of who is making what, and
to permit inspectors to make unannounced inspections every two
years. I guess this is an improvement, as the current inspection
level is 10 or more years in some countries.
My advice to you is to make a list of your medications. Telephone
or otherwise contact the suppliers to request the information you
feel is relevant. Determine if the drug or drugs and all ingredients
are manufactured, packaged and distributed within the United States
without any outside input. If you are dissatisfied with the answers
presented, do your homework to find out if a comparable medication
is available here and meets your standards. Good luck!
Write Dr. Gott c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th floor, New
York, NY 10016
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